Energy & Environment
I want to tell you about two recent U.S. District Court rulings that I am following closely that have major implications for access to quality, affordable health care for all Americans.
For the first time since 1996, the Democratic National Convention is set to take place in Chicago! Reports show that the 2024 convention is expected to provide a well-needed $150 million boost to our economy. The eyes of the world will be watching, and I cannot wait to show off our magnificent city.
This week, I talk about Earth Day, Ukraine, and Student Loan debt. Also, some updates on a community health workers program and the latest on the coronavirus and the travel mask mandate.
As I am sure you are aware, former President Donald Trump has been indicted by a New York grand jury and will be arraigned on Tuesday. According to reports, Trump faces more than 30 counts related to business fraud for allegedly concealing hush money payments to Stormy Daniels in order to cover-up their extramarital affair from voters during the closing days of his presidential campaign.
I had a fabulous week back home in the 9th Congressional District! I love getting to be out and about in our community, whether I am touring a non-profit organization, meeting with local elected officials, or visiting with constituents.
History was made in Washington this week when President Biden signed into law the Inflation Reduction Act. This law makes the largest-ever federal investment in addressing the threat of climate change, lowers prescription drug costs, and implements commonsense measures to make wealthy individuals and corporations finally pay their fair share in taxes. Furthermore, small businesses and families making under $400,000 will not have to pay a penny more in taxes.
This past week, I had the immense privilege of traveling to Nairobi, Kenya on a bipartisan trip with 17 of my Congressional colleagues. Africa’s unprecedented population growth will impact geopolitics, global trade, migration, and almost every aspect of life. By 2050, 1 in 4 people on Earth will be African. As policymakers, we have a duty to learn as much as we can about this booming continent.
This week, I was excited to begin welcoming guests to my new office in the Rayburn House Office Building. Now, I have a magnificent view of the United States Capitol. I am so appreciative to my staff who worked so hard to make this move happen. If you are ever in Washington, please come by and check out my wonderful new space!
On Friday, I voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2023 government funding legislation. This monumental funding package will have major implications for generations to come.
In all my years as a Member of Congress, I have never experienced a year quite like this. From Kevin McCarthy's rise and fall from the speakership to averting two government shutdowns which would have had disastrous consequences for everyday Americans, the past year was historic and unprecedented to say the least.
Despite holding 724 votes this year, only 27 pieces of legislation were signed into law, the lowest tally since the Great Depression. House Republicans’ inability to govern was on full display.